Campaign launched in Norfolk to tackle single-use plastic waste
Norfolk residents are being encouraged to make small everyday changes.
Last updated 25th Mar 2021
A campaign encouraging people in Norfolk to make small swaps to try and reduce single-use plastic waste in the county has been launched.
The 'swap2save' scheme asks people to consider things like swapping a throw-away plastic bottle for a reusable one.
Norfolk County Council says the idea is that'll help cut waste while saving people money.
Around 30,000 tonnes of single-use items are thrown away locally each year and it costs around £3.47m to dispose of it all.
Cllr Andy Grant, Norfolk County Council cabinet member for environment and waste, said: "We know what a huge burden single-use plastics and products place on the planet. With a global problem it can seem tough to know where to start to help make things better.
"This clever new campaign the team have devised will hopefully help us to think about some of the few small choices we make every day that cumulatively have the chance to make a really big difference.
"Before covid hit last year we were already trialling some new ideas at County Hall, and just by switching to reusable cups we were immediately able to cut the number of single-use cups we used from more than 110,000 a year, to almost zero.
"Look out for the campaign on social media from today, with a new idea coming every week. How many swaps can you make?"
Other ideas for simple swaps include switching disposable razors for a bamboo or stainless steel one with replaceable blades, swapping disposable wet wipes or cotton wool pads with a washable flannel, or for snack swaps, you could change from having crisps to popcorn you can pop at home.